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Best Grass For South Florida (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a lush, green lawn in South Florida, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right type of grass. With the hot and humid weather, it’s important to choose a grass that can withstand the elements and provide the right level of maintenance for your lifestyle. Before making a purchase, there are a few factors to consider to ensure the best outcome for your lawn.

First, consider the amount of sun exposure in your yard. Do you have a lot of shade or full sun? Different types of grass have varying levels of tolerance to sunlight, so it’s important to choose a type that will thrive in your specific yard conditions. Additionally, consider how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Some types of grass require more trimming, fertilization, and watering than others.

Are you tired of looking at a dead or patchy lawn? Does your current grass type require too much upkeep? What type of grass is best suited for South Florida’s climate? These are important questions to consider before making a purchase for your lawn. By taking the time to research and make an informed decision, you can have the beautiful green lawn you’ve been dreaming of. Let’s explore the different types of grass suitable for South Florida’s climate and get your lawn on the right track.

10 Best Grass For South Florida

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The lawn fertilizer is ideal for protecting against heat and drought and feeding for up to 3 months on any grass type in Florida.
2
Ideal for fertilizing and eliminating weeds from southern grasses, specifically targeting dollarweed and clover in a 10,000 sq. ft. area.
3
Ideal for nourishing and protecting lawns in hot and dry climates, feeding for up to 3 months and suitable for all grass types.
4
Ideal for lawn and pasture areas with sandy soil and warm climates, providing healthy growth of Pensacola Bahia grass.
5
This grass seed is ideal for areas with high temperatures and little rainfall, as it is resistant to heat and drought.
6
The product is ideal for growing bermudagrass in hot and drought-prone areas.
7
Ideal for southern lawns with low maintenance and watering requirements.
8
Ideal for quick establishment of a lush, green Bermudagrass lawn in warm climates with full sun exposure.
9
Ideal for quickly growing lush, green grass in both sunny and shady areas of your lawn.
10
Ideal for growing healthy grass in hot and dry climates, requiring minimal maintenance and irrigation.
The lawn fertilizer is ideal for protecting against heat and drought and feeding for up to 3 months on any grass type in Florida.
Ideal for fertilizing and eliminating weeds from southern grasses, specifically targeting dollarweed and clover in a 10,000 sq. ft. area.
Ideal for nourishing and protecting lawns in hot and dry climates, feeding for up to 3 months and suitable for all grass types.
Ideal for lawn and pasture areas with sandy soil and warm climates, providing healthy growth of Pensacola Bahia grass.
This grass seed is ideal for areas with high temperatures and little rainfall, as it is resistant to heat and drought.
The product is ideal for growing bermudagrass in hot and drought-prone areas.
Ideal for southern lawns with low maintenance and watering requirements.
Ideal for quick establishment of a lush, green Bermudagrass lawn in warm climates with full sun exposure.
Ideal for quickly growing lush, green grass in both sunny and shady areas of your lawn.
Ideal for growing healthy grass in hot and dry climates, requiring minimal maintenance and irrigation.

1. Southern Shield Lawn Feed & Fertilizer.

Ensure your lawn stays healthy and lush with Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn FoodFL. This lawn food is specially formulated to protect against heat and drought and is safe to use on all grass types. With just one application, it can keep your lawn fed for up to 3 months, making it a convenient and efficient solution for lawn care.

Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn FoodFL can be easily applied using a Scotts broadcast/rotary, drop, or Wizz spreader, and can cover up to 5,000 sq. ft. This lawn food is only available in FL, making it a great choice for homeowners in the area.

With Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn FoodFL, you can enjoy a healthy and resilient lawn that can withstand harsh weather conditions. Its unique formula provides the essential nutrients that your lawn needs, helping it grow thicker and greener. Try it today and see the difference it can make for your lawn!

Pros

  • Specially formulated to protect against heat and drought
  • Safe to use on all grass types
  • One application can keep a lawn fed for up to 3 months
  • Can be easily applied using a Scotts broadcast/rotary, drop, or Wizz spreader
  • Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft.

2. Southern Lawn Savior: Scotts Weed & Feedf2

The Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & FeedF2 is a highly effective lawn fertilizer that helps to green your lawn while also killing a range of common lawn weeds, including dollarweed and clover. This product is specifically designed for use on southern grasses, including St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass. With its unique formula, this weed and feed product not only helps to eliminate existing weeds but also promotes the growth of a thick, green turf that helps to prevent runoff and crowd out future weeds. Each package covers up to 10,000 sq. ft.

If you're looking for a way to improve the look and health of your southern lawn, the Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & FeedF2 is an excellent choice. Its targeted formula ensures that your lawn is getting exactly what it needs to thrive, while also eliminating unsightly weeds.

Overall, this product is a great investment for anyone looking to improve the appearance and health of their southern lawn. It is easy to use and highly effective, making it a must-have for any lawn care arsenal.

Pros

  • Highly effective at eliminating common lawn weeds, including dollarweed and clover
  • Promotes the growth of a thick, green turf that helps to prevent runoff and crowd out future weeds
  • Designed specifically for use on southern grasses, including St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass
  • Covers up to 10,000 sq. ft.
  • Easy to use

3. Florida Heat-Drought Lawn Food – 5,000 Sq. Ft.

This lawn fertilizer is specifically formulated to nourish and strengthen Florida lawns, providing protection against heat and drought. It contains essential nutrients that feed the grass for up to three months, promoting strong and deep root development. With this fertilizer, users can enjoy a lush and healthy lawn that is resistant to harsh weather conditions. It is suitable for use on any grass type and is guaranteed not to burn the lawn. Please note that this product is only available in Florida.

Promote a healthy and resilient lawn with this specially formulated fertilizer. It contains essential nutrients that feed the grass for up to three months, providing lasting nourishment and protection against heat and drought. With a strong and deep root system, the grass is better equipped to withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain its green and vibrant appearance. This fertilizer is easy to apply and suitable for use on any grass type, making it a convenient solution for lawn care.

Maintain a beautiful and healthy lawn with this top-quality fertilizer. Its unique formula is designed to feed and strengthen Florida lawns, promoting deep root growth and protecting against heat and drought. With regular use, users can enjoy a lush and vibrant lawn that is resistant to harsh weather conditions. This fertilizer is easy to apply and safe for all grass types, ensuring that users can achieve the desired results with ease.

Pros

  • Specifically formulated for Florida lawns
  • Feeds for up to 3 months
  • Suitable for any grass type
  • Promotes strong and deep root growth
  • Protects against heat and drought
  • Easy to apply
  • Guaranteed not to burn lawn

Cons

  • – Only available in Florida

4. Hancock Bahia Grass: Warm Climate Growth Powerhouse

Looking for a way to get a lush green lawn, but struggling with sandy soil? Look no further than Hancock's raw Pensacola Bahia grass seed. This grass seed is specially designed to help grass grow in sandy soil, giving you the lawn you've always dreamed of. With its ability to adapt to climate conditions, this natural Florida Bahia grass can be grown on a variety of soils, from upland, well-drained sands to moist, poorly drained flatwood soils, providing coverage in even the most unsatisfactory soil.

Ideal for full sun lawns in warm southern climates where lawns have full sun for more than 8 hours a day, this raw Pensacola Bahia grass seed is perfect for lawn and pasture applications. Its deep roots help the grass grow in heat and drought, making it a reliable choice for those living in warm southern states like Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Northeast Texas, and Southwest California.

At Hancock Farm & Seed Co., they've been providing top-quality seeds at a great price since 1978. As a fourth-generation family-owned and operated company, they know what it takes to grow, harvest, and process the best seeds around. When you choose Hancock's raw Pensacola Bahia grass seed, you're getting a product that's direct from the farmers, ensuring you get a quality product every time.

Pros

  • Helps grass grow in sandy soil
  • Ideal for full sun lawns in warm southern climates
  • Seeds establish deep roots that help the grass grow in heat and drought
  • Can be grown on a variety of soils, from upland, well-drained sands to moist, poorly drained flatwood soils
  • Direct from farmers, ensuring a quality product

5. Heat-Drought Resistant Grass Seed, 10lbs By Scotts

The Argentine Bahiagrass grass seed is an excellent choice for those looking for a low maintenance grass that is heat and drought resistant. It is specifically designed for full sun and has a wider blade than Pensacola bahiagrass. The seed is coated to absorb 2x more water than uncoated seed, which helps with establishment and growth. With this grass seed, you can expect deep roots and excellent stress tolerance. It can cover up to 2,000 sq. ft. and will result in a darker green lawn.

This grass seed is perfect for those who want a low maintenance lawn that can handle harsh weather conditions. It is easy to establish and maintain, and its wider blades give it a unique look. With this seed, you won't have to worry about watering as often because of its water-absorbing coating. You can enjoy a beautiful, lush lawn with minimal effort.

Overall, the Argentine Bahiagrass grass seed is an excellent investment for those who want a beautiful and low maintenance lawn.

Pros

  • Designed for full sun
  • Coated to absorb 2x more water than uncoated seed
  • Establishes deep roots and tolerates stress for lower maintenance
  • Excellent heat and drought resistance
  • Darker green and has a wider blade than Pensacola bahiagrass
  • Seeds up to 2,000 sq. ft.

6. Bermudagrass Builder: Drought-Resistant Seed For Heat

The Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix is specially designed for full sun, high traffic areas, and drought resistance. This premium grass seed mix is coated with an exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating, which has the ability to absorb more water, feed the seedlings with essential nutrients, and protect them from disease. The package includes Scotts' best seed, which offers excellent protection against disease, keeps the seed moist 2x longer, and feeds to jumpstart growth for thicker, greener grass, guaranteed.

The Southern Gold Mix aggressively spreads to fill in bare spots and crowd out weeds, making it a perfect choice for lawns that are challenged by long periods of scorching southern heat, drought, and bare spots. This premium grass seed mix is a perfect choice for anyone who is looking to achieve a lush, green, and healthy lawn. The high-quality blend of grass seeds in this mix ensures that your lawn will have a uniform texture and color throughout the year.

This premium grass seed mix is easy to apply, and it germinates quickly, ensuring that you will see results in just a few days. The Southern Gold Mix is a perfect choice for anyone who is looking to enhance the beauty of their lawn while providing it with the essential nutrients that it needs to thrive. So, if you are looking for a high-quality grass seed mix that will help you achieve the lawn of your dreams, look no further than the Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Southern Gold Mix.

Note: The bag contains 7 lbs of grass seed, which is enough to cover up to 2,800 sq. ft. of lawn area.

Pros

  • Designed for full sun, high traffic areas, and drought resistance
  • Exclusive 4 in 1 WaterSmart PLUS Coating absorbs more water, feeds with essential nutrients and protects seedlings from disease
  • Includes Scotts best seed, protects against disease, keeps seed moist 2x longer & feeds to jumpstart growth for thicker, greener grass, guaranteed
  • Aggressively spreads to fill in bare spots and crowd out weeds
  • Great for lawns challenged by long periods of scorching southern heat, drought, and bare spots
  • Easy to apply and germinates quickly

Cons

  • – The bag contains only 7 lbs of grass seed

7. Southern Lawn Savior: Argentine Bahia Seed Mix

Looking for a low maintenance grass seed that can replace problematic lawn seed varieties? Look no further than the Bahia grass seed from Hancock Farm & Seed Co. This popular seed produces a lush, wide-bladed and attractive lawn and pasture grass that requires minimal attention.

One of the standout features of this seed is its low watering requirements. With 10 to 12 feet of dense root structure, the Argentine Bahia grass needs less frequent watering than other grass varieties. This makes it a great option for those who don't have the time or resources to water their lawn every day.

But this Bahia grass isn't just low maintenance, it's also resistant. With a mixture of 75% coated Argentine Bahia grass and 25% Browntop Millet, this seed provides fast ground coverage, retains soil moisture and prevents soil and seed erosion. This makes it a great choice for areas that are prone to soil erosion or other environmental challenges.

One thing to keep in mind is that this Bahia grass is best used in the southern United States where warm weather persists. But if you're in a warm, drought-prone area, this low-watering option could be just what you need.

And if you're wondering about the quality of the seed itself, rest assured that you're getting top-quality seeds direct from the source. Hancock Farm & Seed Co. has been growing, harvesting and processing Bahia grass seed since 1978. As a fourth-generation family-owned and operated company, they bring you 40 years of experience and expertise at a great price.

Pros

  • Produces a lush, wide-bladed and attractive lawn and pasture grass
  • Requires minimal attention and low watering
  • Provides fast ground coverage, retains soil moisture and prevents soil and seed erosion
  • Ideal for warm weather conditions
  • Directly sourced from a reputable, fourth-generation family-owned company

Cons

  • – Best suited for warm weather conditions, may not thrive in cooler climates

8. Pennington Smart Seed Bermudagrass Mix With 2x Faster Results 8.75 Lb

Looking for a solution to transform your southern, sunny lawn? Look no further than this Bermudagrass grass seed mix. This specially formulated mix contains just the right amount of fertilizer to help your lawn succeed. With its unique blend of grass seed, this mix is designed to help Bermuda lawns start strong and crowd out weeds. It offers fast establishment and strong coverage for 2x results, ensuring your lawn looks its best in no time.

One of the standout features of this seed mix is its exceptional heat, drought, and traffic tolerance. This makes it ideal for areas that receive over 8 hours of sun, where other grasses might struggle to survive. Whether you have a large yard or a small patch of grass, this seed mix is guaranteed to grow, and you can expect to see results in just 10 to 14 days. Plus, with a coverage area of up to 5,000 sq. ft., you'll have plenty of seed to get the job done.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and effective way to transform your lawn, this Bermudagrass grass seed mix is an excellent choice. With its carefully formulated blend of grass seed and fertilizer, plus its exceptional heat and drought tolerance, it's sure to help your lawn thrive and look its best.

Pros

  • Specially formulated mix for southern, sunny lawns
  • Fast establishment and strong coverage for 2x results
  • Exceptional heat, drought, and traffic tolerance
  • Guaranteed to grow with results in 10 to 14 days
  • Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft.

9. Rapid Green 16lbs: Sun & Shade Grass Mix

Achieve a lush lawn in just a few weeks with Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix. The combination of seed and fertilizer in this proprietary mix grows up to 2x faster than seed alone when applied at the new lawn rate and with proper care. This unique blend of sun and shade mix of seed and fertilizer produces a full green lawn that grows in just weeks. The grass will start to grow in as little as 12 days and will reach full maturity in 21 days. Scotts Turf Builder Rapid Grass Sun & Shade Mix is the perfect solution for problematic areas in your lawn that need extra attention as well as establishing new grass.

The best time to plant grass seed is during the fall or spring when temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F and the threat of frost has passed. To ensure optimal results, prepare the soil by lightly raking it to remove debris. Apply the grass seed using a Scotts spreader and water daily or as needed to keep the soil surface moist until the seedlings reach 2 to 3 inches tall. With one 16-lb. bag, you can seed up to 8,000 sq. ft. of lawn. Please note that this product may not be available in all states.

Pros

  • Produces a full green lawn that grows in just weeks
  • Grows up to 2x faster than seed alone when applied at the new lawn rate and with proper care
  • Ideal for problematic areas in your lawn as well as establishing new grass
  • One 16-lb. bag can seed up to 8,000 sq. ft. of lawn

Cons

  • – May not be available in all states

10. Bonide Heat & Drought Grass Seed, 7 Lbs

The product with model number 60254 is made in the United States. Its item package dimensions are 12.44 inches in length, 11.57 inches in width, and 1.57 inches in height. The total weight of the package is 7.01 pounds.

This product is perfect for those who are looking for a high-quality item that is made in the USA. It has a sturdy construction and comes in a well-designed package.

Experience the convenience of using this product with its compact size that does not take up too much space. Its weight is also manageable, making it easy to carry around.

Pros

  • Made in the USA
  • Sturdy construction
  • Well-designed package
  • Compact size
  • Manageable weight

Best Grass For South Florida FAQs

Can I grow grass in shaded areas in South Florida?

Yes, it is possible to grow grass in shaded areas in South Florida. However, the type of grass that will thrive in shaded areas will depend on several factors such as the amount of shade, soil type, and moisture levels. Some grass species that are tolerant of shade include St. Augustine grass, Zoysia grass, and Bahia grass.

If you are looking to grow grass in shaded areas, it is important to prepare the soil adequately by adding organic matter and ensuring that it is well-drained. You may also need to fertilize the grass more frequently than in sunny areas to compensate for the reduced sunlight.

Regular maintenance practices such as mowing and watering will also be necessary to ensure that the grass remains healthy. It is also recommended to consult with a local lawn care professional who can provide tailored advice on the specific grass species that will thrive in your shaded area and the best practices for maintaining a healthy lawn.

How often should I water my South Florida grass?

When it comes to watering your South Florida grass, there are a few factors to consider. The type of grass you have, the time of year, and the weather conditions all play a role in determining how often you should water your lawn. As a general rule, most grasses in South Florida need about 1-2 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation. However, during the hot and dry summer months, you may need to water more frequently to prevent your lawn from drying out and turning brown. It's also important to water deeply and infrequently, rather than giving your lawn a light watering every day. This will encourage deeper root growth and help your grass thrive. Be sure to check with your local nursery or gardening center for specific recommendations based on your grass type and location.

What are some common pests and diseases that affect South Florida grass?

In South Florida, there are several pests and diseases that can affect the health of your grass. One of the most common pests is the chinch bug, which feeds on the sap of the grass and can cause brown patches to appear. Another common pest is the sod webworm, which feeds on the grass blades and can cause significant damage if left untreated.

In terms of diseases, one of the most prevalent is brown patch, which is caused by a fungus and can result in circular brown patches on the lawn. Another common disease is gray leaf spot, which also results in brown patches and is caused by a different type of fungus.

Other pests and diseases that can affect South Florida grass include nematodes, which are microscopic worms that feed on the roots of the grass, and dollar spot, which is another type of fungus that can cause small, circular patches of dead grass.

To prevent and control these pests and diseases, it is important to maintain proper lawn care practices, such as watering and fertilizing appropriately, mowing at the correct height, and aerating regularly. Additionally, using pest and disease-resistant grass varieties can also help to minimize the risk of infestation.

What is the best way to fertilize South Florida grass?

The best way to fertilize South Florida grass depends on the type of grass you have, the time of year, and the condition of the soil. It is important to choose a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for the type of grass you have, as different grasses have different nutrient requirements. It is also important to fertilize at the right time of year, as over-fertilizing can lead to excessive growth and disease. Additionally, it is important to test your soil regularly to determine its nutrient levels and adjust your fertilization accordingly. In general, a slow-release fertilizer is a good choice for South Florida grass, as it will release nutrients gradually over time and prevent leaching. Applying fertilizer in small doses several times throughout the growing season is also recommended, as this will help ensure that the grass receives a steady supply of nutrients. Finally, be sure to water your grass thoroughly after fertilizing to help the nutrients penetrate the soil and reach the roots.

What types of grass are best suited for South Florida's climate?

When it comes to selecting the best grass for South Florida's tropical climate, there are a few options that stand out. One of the most popular types of grass is St. Augustine grass, which is known for its ability to thrive in warm and humid conditions. This grass has a deep green color and can withstand heavy foot traffic, making it a popular choice for lawns and parks.

Another option is Bermuda grass, which is a more drought-tolerant type of grass that can handle both sun and shade. This grass is known for its toughness and resilience, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Zoysia grass is another popular choice for South Florida lawns. This grass is known for its fine texture and soft feel, and it can handle both sun and shade. It is also drought-tolerant and requires less water than other types of grass.

Ultimately, the best grass for South Florida's climate will depend on a variety of factors, including the amount of sunlight and water the lawn receives, as well as the specific needs of the property owner. It is important to consult with a lawn care professional to determine the best type of grass for your specific needs.

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